What's Affecting Your Energy Bills?

July 25, 2017
By
Roth Heating & Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical

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Some, but not all, of the hardworking appliances inside your home raise
energy bills as they start to wear out. If you are concerned with keeping
your home’s energy costs low and you depend on the conveniences
they offer, keep an eye on these vulnerable appliances:

Water heater

Next to your HVAC system, the water heater uses the most energy, and if
it isn’t energy efficient to start with, its consumption could be
high. As water heaters age, mineral solids in the water solidify at the
bottom of the tank and the appliance starts to lose its efficiency.

It’s also the one appliance that can do a lot more damage if it isn’t
replaced as it
starts to fail. A leaking or burst water heater will flood the area around it, and water
damage isn’t cheap or easy to repair. If yours is over 12 years
old, it’s time to think about replacing it.

Refrigerator

The refrigerator is another appliance that runs 24/7 and it will lose efficiency
over time. Since it pulls air from the surrounding area, its components
are often
covered with dust. The gaskets around the refrigerator and freezer doors can start to leak,
a sure sign the refrigerator is driving up energy bills. While you can
replace the gaskets, they are expensive, and often cost more than the
appliance is worth.

Microwave

Over time, microwave ovens do wear out. The magnetron inside them will
lose power over time. Most microwaves also use a mica plate that diffuses
the microwave energy that will deteriorate over time, especially if it’s dirty.

HVAC systems

Like anything mechanical, HVAC equipment
will wear out and as they do, energy costs rise. The lifetime of most systems ranges
between 12 and 20 years. Although this appliance is the most expensive
in most homes, replacing it increases comfort and lowers energy consumption.

It’s important to stay on top of the maintenance these appliances
require to keep energy bills low and prolong their lifetimes. To learn
more, contact
Roth Heating & Cooling, providing trusted HVAC services for Portland area homeowners.